South Sudan: NGOs call on Gov't to end social media shutdown
#KeepItOn coalition — a global network of over 334 human rights organizations from 105 countries working to end internet shutdowns — urgently demand the government of South Sudan to put an immediate end to the ongoing social media shutdowns in the country. The shutdown is in gross violation of national and international human rights frameworks and must not be allowed to continue. Restricting access to critical digital platforms in times of crisis stifles not only free expression, but also access to healthcare and life-saving information. These platforms are not solely for social communications, they are lifelines in times of crisis — enabling the rapid dissemination of critical alerts about safety, shelter, and emergency services. Moreover, internet shutdowns impede the documentation of human rights abuses and enable perpetrators of such atrocities to evade accountability. Additionally, evidence shows that blocking access to vital communication platforms exacerbates harm and amplifies the spread of misinformation and disinformation.
On January 22, 2025, the National Communication Authority (NCA) directed all internet service providers to block access to social media for a maximum of 90 days in South Sudan. Authorities claim the shutdown was to prevent the circulation of graphic videos depicting the killing of South Sudanese nationals including women and children, allegedly by the Sudanese Armed Forces, in Wad Madani — a city in neighboring Sudan. There have been widespread violent protests in South Sudan and reprisal attacks against Sudanese people and businesses in the capital, Juba, and other parts of the country. In efforts to curb the situation, the government imposed a dusk-to-dawn nationwide curfew until further notice on January 18, and subsequently ordered the blocking of social media.